The Browns on Tuesday also released backup quarterback Brett Ratliff and punter Dave Zastudil, who had been on injured reserve with a knee injury, and placed starting offensive guard Billy Yates on injured reserve with a biceps injury.

Ratliff returned to the Browns earlier this season after Jake Delhomme and Seneca Wallace suffered ankle injuries. He was waived by Cleveland after training camp and was signed to New England's practice squad.

With Delhomme and Wallace back and rookie Colt McCoy playing well, Ratliff became expendable.